SELF-ESTEEM AS A MODERATOR OF THE IMPACT OF UNEMPLOYMENT

The present study examined self-esteem as a moderator of the relationship between unemployment and psychological strain. It was proposed that the relationship between unemployment and psychological strain (anxiety, depression, and life dissatisfaction) would be strongest among those with low levels of self-esteem. Data were collected from 195 unemployed individuals, and 137 who were employed Results indicated a modest relationship between unemployment and psychological strain. Regression results for the overall sample indicated that self-esteem moderated the relationship between unemployment and anxiety although this effect was weak. When data were analyzed by gender, however, moderator effects were found only for women and these were stronger than those found for the entire sample. Specifically, unemployment was associated with high levels of anxiety and depression only among those women reporting low levels of self-esteem. Implications of these findings are discussed.